Journal of Sports Science and Human Performance
Public Investment and Performance: An Empirical Assessment of Government Sports Expenditure, Athlete Outcomes, and Grassroots Participation in India
Abstract
Rajasimman and Lokesh Waran
Sports policy has gained considerable prominence in India as governments at the Union and state levels seek to enhance the country’s competitiveness in international arenas while simultaneously promoting greater youth participation in physical activity. From 2005 to 2025, successive policy pronouncements and budgetary allocations have underscored the instrumental role of sports in advancing human development, fostering social inclusion, and building national prestige [1,2]. Public spending on sports has risen accordingly, with new schemes targeting infrastructure development, athlete support mechanisms, and grassroots programmes. Flagship initiatives such as Khelo India and the Target Olympic Podium Scheme exemplify this expanded commitment [3].